As a new homeowner (congratulations!), you may have recently bought a home which has a gas heating system installed or a much older unit which needs updating. This includes back boilers (which are installed behind the fireplace) or conventional boilers which require a hot cylinder and cold water storage tank – usually found in the loft.
Since these types of older systems can be 50% less efficient than newer models, you’re probably wondering what’s the best way to update and heat your new space, and the best heating system for this?
With the nation aiming to decarbonise its energy sources and reduce the use of fossil fuels, electric heating systems for houses have become more popular to install. Not only do they have the added benefit of futureproofing your property in line with the Government’s targets, an efficient electric heating system can also reduce your energy bills overall – that’s a few more pennies for exciting renovations!
But as a first-time homeowner, it can be overwhelming enough moving into your very own place. Armed with a growing list of plans to redecorate, it can take time to make your house really feel like a home. Comfort and an efficient heating system is a necessity as you settle into your house, which an electric home set up could help you achieve.
Understandably, there are few factors to weigh up including upfront costs, reliability, maintenance, and how much you could save on your utility bills long-term. Our experts unpack all you need to know to weigh up the benefits of choosing an electric heating system for your first house.
Electric heating is easy to install
With no need for gas pipes, electric boilers are simpler to fit into smaller well insulated homes or flats. Depending where your current boiler is installed, as part of your renovation plans, why not revamp the airing cupboard with a sleek electric system mounted on the wall? Creating more handy storage space to store towels and laundry.
To keep costs and household disruption down, an electric boiler can also be fitted to work with your existing set of radiators throughout the home, meaning it’s a less invasive and more cost-effective installation process. As an added benefit, electric boilers don’t need a flu either which means you’ll have a new system in no time, with less mess and hassle.
Future proof your home with electric heating grants
Make the most of the Government’s incentivised schemes, including the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS). If you live in England and Wales and you don’t live in a new build property, the scheme will provide a grant of £7,500 to contribute to futureproofing your home, such as combining an electric air source heat pump with an existing gas boiler system.
There are many ways to integrate a heat pump into your heating system, with the hybrid electric model a smart option so you can utilise existing systems with carbon-neutral alternatives. For example, energy generated by an air source heat pump can power your existing gas boiler, providing up to 90% of winter heating efficiently and reliably without the guilt of burning more fossil fuels. This government scheme for new boilers is one of the most generous incentives available right now for homeowners planning long-term efficiency upgrades.
Electric heating systems require less maintenance
While electric boilers still need an annual service, much like a gas boiler, they’re constructed using no moving parts and therefore require less maintenance. This increases the lifespan of a Fischer Electric Boiler compared to the 8-10 years a gas boiler can last for.
Gain complete control heating your home room by room
Installing electric heating, accompanied by a wireless room thermostat gives you complete control over how to heat every room in your house! With room temperatures being so subjective per person, combining electric radiators with thermostats means you can set a programme to warm up each room just how you (and your household) like it.
Thermostats are a great way of saving on your heating bills, as you can reduce heating your home at certain time periods, including when you’re out of the house or on holiday.
If you’re still weighing up your options and asking yourself “should I choose electric heating”, check out our guides on converting your old gas boiler and the cost of gas vs electric.
While you may feel the initial cost of making your home more eco-friendly with an electric system, long-term the investment could reduce your energy bills by more than £46,600 over the course of a 25-year mortgage (based on the average three-bedroom house).
With many ways to combine electric heating systems and future-proof your property, get in touch with the team at Fischer who are more than happy to discuss which electric products are the most energy-efficient choice for your home.
- Should First-Time Homeowners Choose Electric Heating? - September 26, 2025
- Top 6 Home Heating Myths Debunked: Fueling The Facts - September 15, 2025
- Why summer is the best time to upgrade to electric heating - August 18, 2025